Media Release The Hon David Hawker MP Speaker of the House of Representatives Federal Member for Wannon

13 April 2005

$10,000 AWARDS FOR INNOVATIVE YOUNG AUSSIES

Young Western Victorians with ideas to make use of science or innovative technology to benefit rural industries should apply for a prestigious national award to support their project, Member for Wannon, David Hawker, said today.

Mr Hawker said the Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry are sponsored by the Australian Government and nine rural research and development corporations (RDCs).

“There are 17 awards available nationally — one from each State and Territory, and nine industry-based. Each award is worth up to $10,000, and is open to farmers, fishers, foresters, processors, students, and anybody else aged between 18 and 35 who is working in, or supporting, our agriculture, fishing and forestry industries,” he said.

Mr Hawker said the awards give creative and enthusiastic young people in rural and regional areas — who often only need an opportunity and a bit of backing — the chance to get their ideas up and running.

“The winners will be those who are assessed as best using the money to undertake projects of long-term benefit to our agriculture, fisheries, forestry, food or natural resource management industries.

“Last year’s winning projects, for example, included developing a new, environmentally-friendly fertilizer; a study into the effect of road transport practices on livestock welfare; a study into how climate change could affect agriculture; the viability of mud crab aquaculture in inland areas and the options for electronically and genetically identifying goats.

“The awards not only deliver lasting benefits to the recipients but also help the industries they represent.

“I urge local young people with good ideas to lodge an application form by 13 June 2005.

“The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra. The event will provide an opportunity for these innovative young people to network with their peers, and to meet rural industry and community leaders,” Mr Hawker said.

Entries close on 13 June 2005. Application forms are available at www.daff.gov.au/scienceawards.

For help on how to apply, contact the electorate office at 190 Gray Street Hamilton on 1300 131 692.